Christopher Rice, a 35-year-old from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court on Thursday, August 13, accused of murdering his nine-year-old daughter, Minnie Merriman. He made no plea and was remanded in custody. This was his second court appearance; he had previously appeared in the dock at the same court last week.
Minnie was found with serious injuries at the Elliot Industrial Estate in Angus, Scotland, just after midnight on Monday, August 3. Emergency services rushed her to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, but she was sadly pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Four other people were taken to hospital and later released.
Family camping trip turns tragic
Police Scotland stated that officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with Minnie's death. The family, who are from West Yorkshire, had been camping in the area at the time of the tragedy and are being supported by specialist officers.
In a statement released through Police Scotland, Minnie's family said: "We are devastated with the loss of our beloved, absolutely incredible, beautiful and brave Minnie Moo. Our family asks that our privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time."
Police investigation and community response
A large police operation was launched following the youngster's death, with a significant cordon placed around part of the industrial estate. A blue forensic tent was erected over a patch of grass, while sections of pavement and road were taped off as officers carried out their investigation.
A businessman told the Daily Record that he had driven past the family hours before the tragedy and saw them cooking on an outdoor camping stove.
Laurie Merriman, Minnie's mum, paid tribute to her "first true love" in a heart-breaking message last week. She wrote: "You have always and will continue being my strength, we are connected eternally, I have never felt a love so deep and a connection so strong. My first true love, my twin, I am connected to you in life and in death, and my girl that cannot be broken, I will fight to stay strong for your little brothers. I will hold my head high, knowing you will always be holding my hand for the rest of my life. I will see you again, that I know for sure. I love you eternally."
A fundraiser was launched to help the family "rebuild" after their "unimaginable heartbreak" at the weekend. Arbroath FC held a minute's silence for Minnie prior to their Scottish Championship fixture against Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
Court proceedings and ongoing inquiries
Detective Inspector Mike Ness, of Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team, said: "Our thoughts remain with those affected by these events. A police presence will remain in the area while our inquiries continue. Anyone with any concerns, or information, should approach these officers or contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0008 of Monday, 3 August 2026."
A petition hearing is the first appearance of an accused in Scotland under solemn court procedure and is held in private before a sheriff, who decides matters such as bail. The court has confirmed Rice's case was fully committed on Thursday and that he was remanded in custody.
